Exchange

Exchange programmes offer an easy way to study abroad. You’ll study at a university that has an agreement with Leiden University and, in return, a student from that university will come to study here.

Characteristics of exchange programmes

You will apply via Leiden University and must meet certain eligibility criteria.

There are limited spaces available, so you are not guaranteed a place on an exchange programme. Leiden University selects students on the basis of their grades and motivation.

Exchange programmes are inexpensive. You will remain registered as a student of Leiden University and won’t need to pay additional tuition fees to your host university.

If you get advance permission from your Board of Examiners, the credits you earn can be counted towards your study programme at Leiden University.

Two types of exchange

There are two types of exchange programme:

University-wide

Via a faculty or study programme

Characteristics of university-wide exchange

As a rule, for students of all disciplines. Conditions may apply.

At your host university, you can generally follow courses offered by any programme or faculty.

All destinations are outside Europe.

The programme is organised by the international exchange coordinator for university-wide exchange, whom you can contact with any questions.

Characteristics of exchange via a faculty or study programme

Only for students from specific study programmes or faculties.

You may only follow courses offered by specific study programmes or faculties at your host university.

Destinations are both within Europe (Erasmus+) and outside Europe.

The programme is organised by the international exchange coordinator at your faculty or programme, whom you can contact with any questions.

Exchange in South Korea. (Photo: Anna Hommel)

Exchange Programmes

The Faculty of Humanities has a large network of student exchange partnerships within Europe. These are the so-called Erasmus+ partnerships, for more information see Where?.

Going abroad indepently

Students who independently apply to a university of their choosing are called 'Free movers'. For more information, see Going abroad independently.

Mandatory Studies Abroad

A number of BA and MA programmes in the Faculty of Humanities have a mandatory study abroad period as a component of the programme. These students are usually not considered to be exchange students. For more information, please check your programme specific tab.